An Asperger Dictionary of Everyday Expressions [Paperback]

Ian Stuart-Hamilton (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: January 2004

Addressing an important aspect of social communication for people with Asperger Syndrome, who use direct, precise language and 'take things literally', this dictionary of idiomatic expressions aims to dispel any confusion that arises from the misinterpretation of language. This book provides explanations of over 5,000 idiomatic expressions plus a guide to their politeness level. Each expression is accompanied by a clear explanation of its meaning and when and how it might be used. The expressions are taken from British and American English, with some Australian expressions included as well. Although the book is primarily intended for people with Asperger Syndrome, it will be useful for anyone who finds problems understanding idiomatic and colloquial English. An essential resource and an informative read, this dictionary will assist in a wide range of situations.

Editorial Reviews

Review

'A useful addition to the reference library of parents and professionals working with children and adults with Autistic Spectrum Disorders'. --- The National Association for Gifted Children

'...illustrates just how complex the English language is... A brilliant idea if you're not sure what an expression means or which one to use.' --- Autism West Midlands

'This is a truly inspirational book and teaching tool and a very successful dictionary for all. It should be on the bookshelves of every inclusive classroom, house and office'. --- Good Autism Practice --This text refers to an alternate Paperback edition.

About the Author

Ian Stuart-Hamilton is Professor of Developmental Psychology at the University of Glamorgan, Wales. He has extensive research experience in Lifespan Psychology. His previous books have been critically praised and have been translated into over ten languages.

Product Details

• Paperback: 240 pages
• Publisher: Jessica Kingsley Publishers (January 2004)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1843101521
• ISBN-13: 978-1843101529
• Product Dimensions: 9.2 x 6 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 12.8 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 4.1 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (8 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #911,919 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars A Book That Might Put NT Translators Out of Business, December 19, 2004

By 

BeatleBangs1964 (United States) - See all my reviews
(TOP 1000 REVIEWER)    (VINE VOICE)   

This review is from: An Asperger Dictionary of Everyday Expressions (Paperback)

For many people with autism and its related condition, Asperger's Syndrome, metaphors and other "vague" expressions are interpreted at the literal level. In many instances, people on the a/A spectrum have difficulty in understanding metaphors and certain idiomatic expressions.

I like the way Anglo, American and Australian expressions are included. While the suggestion of separating each set of idiomatic phrases and metaphors by country is a good one, that is not to overlook the validity and need for this book. Even if one's child or anyone else on the a/A spectrum uses phrases from other countries, it speaks to inclusion and cultural awareness. I think that speaks to having goals for those who would most benefit from this work and it also is a fascinating look at idioms. It just might make the work of neurotypical (NT) translators lighter; people on the spectrum can consult this book for some of the more ambiguous-sounding expressions.

I recommend "What Did You Say? What Do You Mean?: An Illustrated Guide to Understanding Metaphors" by Welton, et al. and feel the Welton book does a much more thorough job of clarifying idioms and metaphors.

All in all, a solid work.

4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Any library will find it an excellent language reference., June 8, 2007

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Midwest Book Review (Oregon, WI USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: An Asperger Dictionary of Everyday Expressions (Stuart-Hamilton, An Asperger Dictionary of Everyday Expressions) (Paperback)

Not just for Asperger sufferers is this dictionary of everyday expressions, a reference tool which has been revised and expanded to include some 5000 expressions to reveal the meaning of everyday idiomatic expressions. People with Asperger Syndrome have difficulties with social communication: here entries are clearly explained, cover British and American English alike, and clarifies phrases commonly used - and confused - in social situations. Any library will find it an excellent language reference.

5 of 6 people found the following review helpful:

3.0 out of 5 stars Question - Can a book be too comprehensive?, February 2, 2007

By 

Suz "treadingwater" (Freeland, United Kingdom) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: An Asperger Dictionary of Everyday Expressions (Stuart-Hamilton, An Asperger Dictionary of Everyday Expressions) (Paperback)

You wouldn't get this book to learn phrases to use... you would use it to understand other people.

There is just one small problem... most people misuse expressions a lot because they have incorrectly assumed what they mean or heard someone else use them wrong, so you could never be sure what is written here is what was actually meant, and it does nothing to help with people's lack of clarity and precision and honesty when speaking in general, which as a person with AS myself I have found a bigger problem than understanding expressions.

If you or someone you know has a serious problem understanding expressions then this book could be helpful, but I would worry that it is perhaps too comprehensive. Many of the phrases contained within seem a bit obscure or archaic. If you did start using the phrases in here the chances are that no one would be able to understand you!

Nice idea though.